DIM Held to 1-1 Draw in Season Opener
Following the heartbreaking conclusion to their Liga BetPlay Apertura campaign, Medellín must now regroup and focus on the Liga BetPlay Clausura, which kicked off for them on July 13, 2025. The match was played at home in front of 14,064 fans — an impressive turnout considering the six-match stadium ban imposed after the Apertura final. Once again, Medellín showed their ability to control the game but struggled to create clear-cut chances and break down a disciplined Alianza side.
Team sheet
There were several changes from the starting XI seen in the Apertura finals:
- Juan Arizala (RM) – With Mender García injured and Jherson Mosquera returning to Newell’s Old Boys, Arizala got the nod.
- Diego Moreno (CM) – Started in place of Baldomero Perlaza, who was on the bench.
- Jader Valencia (ST) – The new signing from Millonarios made his first start.
- Luis Sandoval (ST) – Got the start up top with Muniz departing to Mexico and Fydriszewski unavailable.
Match Highlights
First Half:
4th minute – Goal! Ayron Del Valle puts Alianza up 1-0.
First-half stats:
- Possession: Medellín 72% – Alianza 28%
- Shots: Medellín 13 (2 on target) – Alianza 4 (2 on target)
- Big chances: Medellín 1
Second Half:
69th minute – Goal! Baldomero Perlaza equalizes for Medellín with an assist from Homar Martínez.
Full-time stats:
- Possession: Medellín 67% – Alianza 33%
- Shots: Medellín 21 (4 on target) – Alianza 9 (6 on target)
- Big chances: Medellín 2 – Alianza 1
Post-Match Thoughts
As mentioned earlier, Medellín was the better side overall. It’s encouraging to see them open the Clausura trying to dominate possession and tempo once again. However, the issue remains: finishing chances. For all the control they had, converting those opportunities is still a problem. There’s plenty of time left in the season — hopefully, they can improve this aspect and push for another run to the final.
Key Player Performances
Homar Martínez – Medellín’s captain and arguably their most important player. Whether it’s defending or creating, he’s always involved. This game was no exception — Martínez had the most touches on the pitch (105), won 60% of his duels, assisted the equalizer, and was named Man of the Match by Sofascore. A complete performance.
Washington Aguerre – Though not always on the good side of the fans — especially after his recent post-match argument with one — his goalkeeping ability is undeniable. He made 5 saves, several of which kept Medellín in the match. Without him, this could’ve easily been a loss.
Honorable Mentions
- Baldomero Perlaza – Came on at halftime for Diego Moreno and scored the equalizer. Made a strong case to be paired with Homar Martínez in the double pivot moving forward.
- Gerónimo Mancilla – The 16-year-old left-footer made his debut and showed real promise. Technical, quick, and composed for his age — definitely a name to keep an eye on.
What’s Next
With many opening weekend matches ending in draws, Medellín finds itself mid-table — but there’s still a long way to go. Their next fixture is away to Boyacá Chicó on July 19, 2025, a team that also drew 1-1 in their opener against Bucaramanga.
Your Thoughts
What did you think of Medellín’s performance? Any changes you think Restrepo should make? Can DIM mount another run to the final this season? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
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Great insights!